On a typical building project, a design team needs several months to develop a concept, select materials, and produce contract documents. For some owners, shortening this process may seem appealing.

Owners have many factors to consider when selecting exterior materials for a new building. In addition to costs, aesthetics, and functionality, they should consider resiliency and the material’s ability to withstand different conditions.

The design and construction process can be long and complex. Without clear expectations between all parties, projects can go awry, impacting your budget and schedule. Before starting design work, we recommend meeting with your design team, discussing the project’s scope, and creating a plan for the work ahead.

When most people think of linoleum, images of their grandmother’s outdated kitchen usually come to mind. The material—once heralded as a miracle in flooring technology—has come to be seen as a relic of a bygone era.

Whether a renovation or new construction, a sports venue project is a large undertaking. More than most buildings, sports venues are community symbols where fans feel an emotional connection. Their experience should be at the heart of the design process.

Choosing a project delivery method is a component of every building project. The delivery method determines the contractual relationship between the architect, contractor, and building owner and how each team member works together.

On May 3, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (NCSML) in Cedar Rapids will host a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off its clock tower renovation. The project will enhance the structure by adding an astronomical clock—the first in the US and one of only three in the world.

In 2008, our home state of Iowa experienced one of the worst natural disasters in its history. Flooding throughout the state impacted approximately 21,000 homes and over 3,000 businesses—amounting to nearly $6 billion in damages.

Next month, construction will wrap up on the third phase of the Johnson County Courthouse renovation. The project—broken into six phases—will reconfigure existing spaces, improve accessibility, and enhance efficiency for those who use the building daily. It will also preserve the building’s character and honor its history.

Exterior material selection is a crucial decision during the architectural process. While defining the building’s character, exterior materials protect the building from weather, moisture, and changing temperatures. The quality of your choice has a lasting impact on your maintenance and operating budget.